ABUJA – Executive Director of Development Specs Academy, Professor Okey Ikechukwu, has emphasized the crucial role of the media in safeguarding national security, saying journalists must balance the public’s right to information with the responsibility to protect sensitive information that could endanger the country.

Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja at the weekend, Ikechukwu noted that the realities of terrorism, cyber threats, insurgency and the rapid spread of digital communication have brought the media and national information security into closer and more complex interaction.

He cautioned against the misconception that the Freedom of Information Act grants unrestricted access to all categories of information, stressing that the Act does not supersede constitutional provisions and other laws aimed at protecting the integrity and security of the state. According to him, journalists have a duty to prevent the dissemination of information capable of undermining national interests, including classified government data, military and intelligence operations, and critical infrastructure.

The professor said responsible journalism entails informing the public without running afoul of laws against defamation, libel and actions capable of causing public disorder. He added that the media must continue to verify facts, expose falsehoods and prevent the spread of misinformation and disinformation that could threaten national stability.

Ikechukwu further stated that the media has a responsibility to educate citizens on cybersecurity risks, online fraud, terrorism radicalisation techniques and other emerging threats. He said media practitioners guided by the principles of responsible journalism should be conversant with manipulated images and videos, coordinated disinformation campaigns and other forms of digital deception.

Commenting on recent controversies surrounding media coverage of the military, Ikechukwu said access to military facilities should not be misconstrued as a licence to disregard established traditions or compromise security.

He urged journalists to consider the implications of sensitive reports, avoid inflammatory language and rumours, and embrace constructive engagement with security institutions. “The media is a critical stakeholder in national information security.

Through accurate reporting, fact-checking, public education and responsible journalism, the media contributes significantly to national stability and resilience,” he said, warning that irresponsible reporting and the disclosure of sensitive information could undermine the delicate balance between press freedom and national security.